26 January 2023 , 16:08
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The Sky Sports F1 presenting team will be made up of 13 people for the 2023 season, as two familiar faces to viewers depart.
Mirror Sport revealed on Wednesday that both Johnny Herbert and Paul di Resta will not be appearing on Sky cameras as part of their Formula 1 coverage this year. Both needed a contract extension to stay one, but no deal was signed.
A Sky spokesperson told the Mirror: "Johnny has been an integral part of our Formula 1 team since the very first season on Sky Sports in 2012. We will miss his humour and big personality and thank him for his energy and enthusiasm over the last 11 years. Everyone wishes him all the best for the future."
Speaking to motorsport content creator Last Lap Lucy, Herbert said it was "unfortunate" that he will not work for Sky this year, but pledged he "will be around". The 58-year-old added: "I've got various things going on. I'm enjoying things on the track and also life off the track as well."
Di Resta has not yet spoken publicly since the announcement, though it is understood that his driving commitments play a part. The Scot will race in both the World Endurance Championship and the European Le Mans Series this year.
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The departure of two high-profile members of the presenting team sparked understandable speculation on social media as to who will be drafted in to replace them. However, unless the broadcaster has a change of heart, no new faces are expected this year with Sky confident there are still more than enough people on the books.
Pit lane reporter Ted Kravitz remains part of the Sky Sports F1 presenting team (Sky Sports F1)David Croft will once again act as the main commentator, with co-comms expected to be shared among several people, as has been the case in recent years. Natalie Pinkham, Simon Lazenby, Rachel Brookes and Naomi Schiff all return as presenters.
As has been the case throughout the time Sky has held the rights to broadcast F1 coverage, the line-up is littered with plenty of star names from the racing world. It includes former F1 champions Damon Hill, Jenson Button and Nico Rosberg – the latter is free to return to the paddock this year now the FIA has relaxed its Covid rules.
Also gracing our screens again this year as pundits and analysts are Martin Brundle, Karun Chandhok and Anthony Davidson. Meanwhile, pit lane reporter Ted Kravitz also remains part of the line-up and is expected to continue hosting his popular post-race Notebook shows.
Full Sky Sports F1 presenting line-up for 2023
Jenson Button
Nico Rosberg
Naomi Schiff
Martin Brundle
Damon Hill
Karun Chandhok
Mick Schumacher free to race for McLaren in 2023 after Mercedes deal reached
Anthony Davidson
Natalie Pinkham
Ted Kravitz
Danica Patrick
Simon Lazenby
David Croft
Rachel Brookes